Security Threats Policy and Guidance

Full Policy Download

Policy

Security threats such as bomb threats, suspicious packages and weapon attacks are rare and the risk of one occurring at Loughborough University is low. However, there is a foreseeable potential for harm to people and severe disruption to University business that could be caused by hoaxes, malicious and real threats or acts of violence. It is the policy of Loughborough University to put in place procedures that minimise the risk to the safety of staff, students, visitors and others from bomb and weapons threats and other suspicious activity on campus. This policy provides a framework for the University to manage threats to security on campus. (Please note the attached appendices which provide guidance to staff, including Security officers on procedures to be adopted in case of a serious security incident).

If a mass evacuation, (one involving one or more zones), is required due to a major incident, e.g. major power outage or flood, then please refer to Loughborough University’s Mass Evacuation Plan.

Scope

This policy shall ensure that an appropriate response shall occur following a bomb or weapon threat or other act against the University and the activities it hosts or undertakes. All students’ halls of residence are covered by the policy, including the accommodation managed by external service providers. The policy covers all activities on campus, whether organised by the University or by other organisations.

The policy covers to the whole of the University campus including all areas, buildings, etc under the control of the University.

Tenants located on campus are expected under the terms of their leases to have business continuity plans in place to manage any significant threat to their business but relevant sections of these plans should be shared with the University to coordinate arrangements for the safety of any person on campus. This policy excludes the Loughborough Students’ Union – see the University Major Incident Plan (MIP) for further details.

Responsibilities

  • Decides whether to invoke the MIP and calls in the Major Incident Team (MIT) providing details of time and location of meeting(s)
  • Chairs the MIT
  • Decides on when the team is to be stood down.
  • Responsible for organising a review meeting after the incident and instigating any reviews of policies and procedures required.
  • Ensures that any activities and events on campus which may be disrupted are quickly identified and relevant people made responsible for managing the impact which may include co-option to the MIT.
  • Liaises with the Police and takes advice from them on the level of evacuation needed.
  • Decides how the School can assist the affected department.
  • Liaises with other Heads of Schools re possible assistance depending on the location of the department • Decides on how best to manage the impact of the incident on teaching, research and enterprise
  • Identifies any contractual agreements to external partners which might be affected by the incident
  • Responsible for all operational matters relating to the site and premises.
  • Setting up of information point for displaced Departments / Professional Services.
  • Recommending actions regarding replacing premises and equipment to ensure business recovery.
  • Responsible for managing aspects of the incident which affect students of the University.
  • Liaising with emergency services regarding students
  • Contacting parents as required
  • Putting in place appropriate support services
  • Responsible for all health and safety matters in respect of the incident.
  • Liaises with the Health and Safety Executive and Environment Agency as appropriate.
  • Takes control of real time emergency, managing the activities of LU Security staff dealing with the incident.
  • Liaises with the Police and the MIT